Easy Risers for Classroom Standing Desk

I have had a lot of teachers coming to me recently asking about standing desks in their classrooms. I threw together some high worktables in our STEAMlab/Makerspace from some old shelves that have been a big hit with students, but they are a bit clunky for the classroom so I tried to come up with a simple solution that they could do themselves. It was also a way to encourage teachers to come in here and get familiar with the equipment. It probably seems like a bit of a no-brainer, but I didn't see anything similar so I thought I would share...

Step 1: Find the Matching Diameter in PVC

I had a bunch of PVC laying around in different diameters so I found the one that matched the table leg. It was only 3-4mm larger which would be solved with a little wedge. I wanted to raise the tables by 18cm, so I cut the PVC sleeves double that.

Step 2: Cut Wooden Blocks

I had a piece of 2x10 from a shipping skid that was a decent fit. I wanted something a bit too large so that I could get a nice, tight friction fit. I cut it into a block, then used the mitre saw to cut the 18cm lengths to fit inside.

Step 3: Smooth the Edges

I used the router to round the edges of the blocks then put them on the belt sander to bring them down just a tiny bit more for a nice snug fit.

Step 4: Insert the Blocks

The final step was to push the blocks into the sleeves and knock them in. Once they slid over the table legs, a chopstick made the perfect wedge and the table was solid.

Step 5: Engaging Teachers

Some teachers had been using the sorts of risers you see in the picture. Not only are they less stable, but they cost $25 a set. But the best part of this project was that I managed to get people in the room and engage them in the process. My thinking is that the more comfortable they are in here, the more comfortable they will be bringing their students in to make stuff!

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My 12 year old does his homework in motion. He stands on his head when he reads and walks around when he is thinking about math. His teachers account for these needs as best they can for all their students while still trying to keep the classroom in order (yes, he has AdD and is treated as are several of his friends). I love the idea of standing desks for kids and adults. Adults who think they have "outgrown" AdD or ADHD are sadly mistaken. They have just learned coping mechanisms or are in denial! We know who you are! :) hopefully more schools and offices will adopt these desks and ideas to help people work more efficiently. Congratulations to you for putting this into effect for your students - no matter what their needs! This is great!